About Us

Psychology Program

As a student of Psychology, you observe, examine and engage with individuals and groups. As a student of the
human condition, our shared mission is to gain a deeper appreciation of your community,
city, country and world by learning about the dynamics, triumphs and flaws of those
who came before you.

Our goals are straightforward: If there is a problem to solve, we strive to make your
education equip you with tools that lead to effective solutions. To understand the
human condition in the context of today, you will study the past and assess how we
have arrived at where we are today. Using empirically tested theories to guide your
thinking and scientific tools to test your hypotheses, your aim is to reveal the masked
truths about reality. You will read the professional literature from multiple disciplines
of psychology, gain insight about and skills in social science methods and data analysis
techniques, practice perspective-taking and empathy, and figure out ways to help a
person, group or community. You will engage in psychological research with published
professionals, and obtain the tools needed to be an effective problem-solver of the
human condition. We have a lot to offer to you, and we know that you have a lot to
offer us, too!

What skills will I gain as a Psychology major?

Knowledge of psychology: You will learn to seek out relevant, useful information about a psychological phenomenon
or process.

Scientific inquiry and critical thinking: You will scrutinize published and unpublished scientific evidence about a wide range
of psychological issues, and you will gain experience at testing your own hypotheses.

Ethical and social responsibility in a diverse world: You will study why and how past psychologists pushed the ethical boundaries with
their research. Importantly, you will study modern approaches to doing no harm and
practicing beneficence in scientific research and in professional practice. You will
learn that psychological lenses are also ethical and moral ones and that knowledge
must combine with purpose and principle.

Communication: You will learn how to become adept at expressing ideas through speaking, professional
writing, data analyzing and scientific reporting.

Professionalism: You will be prepared to interact confidently with others in local and global professional
organizations. You will become a more effective citizen and an asset to your community.

Why study psychology at Saint Xavier?

SXU is a unique place to learn about psychology. We have been part of Chicago history
for over 170 years. Generations of our graduates have gone on to be problem-solvers
for the sake of improving the human condition.

Our faculty include experts in the history of psychology, cognitive, developmental,
social, clinical, motivational, research methodology and data analysis, among other
areas.

We combine this breadth with the advantages of a small department. You will come to
know your professors as individuals as they will with you as an individual and and
student.

We aim to reveal what sparks your curiosity and help to guide you on your own quest
for psychological understanding.

You will work closely with your fellow students and form lifelong friendships.

Our University comes from a tradition of faith, service and value for the individual,
service and intellectual inquiry.